Perfect lightweight softshell

By James Foulks Ranked #1475 - Men's Softshell Jackets January 29, 2009

For starters, if you are looking for a primary softshell jacket as a replacement for a hard-shell, this would probably not rate as a 4 star rating. This is a lightweight softshell and given that caveat, it rates as 4 stars in my book. It would gain that 5th star if it had two additional items: Pit zips and more water shedding properties. With that being said, I would guess that if one finds themselves outside only needing a lightweight softshell, the need for water repellency is perhaps moot. I've taken this cycling, skiing on bluebird days and also used as a light overcoat for everyday. The fit is close and trim, but it has excellent reach in the arms and lower back....so no bunching/stretched fabric in the pits when hunched over the handlebars or annoying drafts in the small of my back. Given that I have broad shoulders, I am surprised at the range of movement I have in this jacket where others would leave my arms feeling constricted given the close fit. Lastly, the breathability is 1st rate in this jacket during high-aerobic activities while blocking all but the strongest winds.

View Details: Arc'teryx Epsilon AR Jacket - Men's

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